An eSIM stands for embedded SIM. This is built into most of the latest phones and allows a user to load a virtual SIM along with their Physical SIM onto their phone. Basically, allowing you to continue using your phone with your normal phone number via your Physical SIM. But using a pre-paid eSIM for your data needs. In fact, many phones allow you to store many eSIMs and switch between them. You can however only use one at a time. The obvious benefit for traveler’s, is that you can purchase an eSIM for that country or region. And not get caught paying crazy data roaming charges. In the past traveler’s would usually be forced to disable data roaming and rely on less secure public WiFI when it was available. With an eSIM. You can disable data roaming on your normal Physical SIM and enable data on your eSIM.  

The other option in the past, was to purchase a new Physical SIM when you arrived at your destination. The problem with this approach is that you basically have a new phone number while travelling and it’s easy to misplace your original SIM. Let alone the time to find a store to purchase them from.

As eSIMs are purchased online you can purchase before you depart and just enable when you arrive. Many eSIMs don’t activate until they connect to their network. So, you don’t lose any of the validity by having them pre-loaded on your phone.

All you need to do is check that your phone supports eSIMs. Links to assist with this are at the bottom of this page. Decide what plan best suits your needs. Complete the purchase online. A link or QR code will then be sent to you. This will automate the loading of the eSIM onto your phone.

You can purchase eSIMs for specific countries as well as regions. So if your travelling around Europe a European Regional eSIM would make sense. However if your only going to a single country. Then a country specifc eSIM would be the most economical.